Chicago Train Attack Victim Identified as 26-Year-Old Bethany MaGee; Suspect Had 72 Prior Arrests, Officials Say
CHICAGO — The woman who was set on fire during a horrific attack aboard a Chicago train earlier this month has been identified as 26-year-old Bethany MaGee, according to officials. The suspect, identified as Lawrence Reed, 50, is a repeat offender with a lengthy criminal record, authorities confirmed.
The shocking incident has drawn widespread outrage, both for the brutality of the crime and for the suspect’s extensive criminal history. According to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Reed had been arrested 72 times prior to the attack.
Attack on the Train
The attack occurred on a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) train when Reed allegedly poured a flammable liquid on MaGee and set her on fire during what police have described as an unprovoked assault. Witnesses immediately called for help, and MaGee was rushed to a nearby hospital with severe burns.
Authorities have not yet released further details on her current medical condition, but local reports indicate that she sustained critical injuries and remains under intensive care.
Suspect’s Extensive Record Raises Concerns
Public records and law enforcement officials have confirmed that Reed is a career criminal with decades of prior arrests ranging from assault to property crimes. The revelation of his long arrest history has renewed criticism of Chicago’s criminal justice system, with many questioning how he was still free to commit another violent act.
“This should never have happened. A man with 72 prior arrests should not have been on the street,” one Chicago resident commented online.
Officials have not yet disclosed whether Reed had been recently released from custody or under supervision at the time of the attack.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed conversations about public safety on Chicago’s transit system, where several recent violent incidents have already raised alarm among riders.
Local advocacy groups are calling for increased security presence on CTA trains, citing a growing sense of fear among passengers who rely on public transportation daily.
“This tragedy is heartbreaking and unacceptable,” one transit safety advocate said. “We need to make sure this never happens again.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Chicago Police Department has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Prosecutors are expected to seek first-degree attempted murder and aggravated battery charges against Reed.
As the community continues to rally in support of MaGee’s recovery, online fundraisers have begun circulating to help her family cover medical costs.
For updates on this developing story, stay with NapervilleLocal.com.
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